Trans States Interview Questions
& Process

Got a call on Friday, they asked a bunch of interview questions over the phone like "tell me a little bit about yourself" and "explain hours". They offered an interview with 3 options: fly to STL, have them fly to me, or Skype. I went with Skype for the following Monday afternoon. The Skype interview had 1 Captain and 1 HR member. It included a 20 min video/history slideshow, about 20 mins on benefits/scheduling, and then about 20 mins of questions. I didn't have to do the 50-question test some others mentioned. After a few questions, they offered me the job and we spent 10-15 mins on offer details.

After applying online a few weeks ago, I got an email for a group interview. It was at a hotel conference room set up like a classroom, with about 15 tables facing a screen. Recruiters checked us in at the door, and you needed a printed, complete application and a resume matching the job history. They gave us numbered name tags. We picked seats, and some of us waited and chatted. There were 45 applicants total. The recruiters, who were former flight attendants, gave a presentation about job basics like availability and appearance, mentioning the industry standard against visible tattoos above the collar. Then, three questions were posted: 'Who is the most inspirational person in your life?', 'Where would you like to go most in the world?', and 'What is the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you?'. We introduced ourselves one by one, using our name tag numbers, answering one of the questions within a minute. This intro was key for getting selected for one-on-one interviews. After that, we waited outside while they decided who moved on. A list was posted with numbers and 'yes' next to those invited back. Those with blank numbers had to leave but could reapply later. About 15-20 people remained for a more detailed presentation on training, pay, and benefits. Finally, there was a one-on-one interview. The whole thing, if you got to the last part, took over 2 hours. Smiling a lot, being friendly to everyone, speaking clearly, and maintaining eye contact during the one-on-one were recommended. I got an email four days later with training options.

I applied online in January and got an email in late April for a recruiting session. There were about 25-30 of us. They talked about the job, mentioning that visible tattoos that can't be covered mean disqualification. They described the lifestyle and gave people who didn't qualify or weren't interested a chance to leave during a short break. About 8 people left. Then, we each had to give a 1-minute introduction about our experience and why we want the job. They narrowed it down to about 10 people and then shared more details about pay, benefits, and training. After that, we had one-on-one interviews. This was on a Tuesday, and I got a job offer via email that Friday.

It was fun to learn the company's backstory, but there were many red flags. Everyone said slightly different things about the same information. The pay is also very low, starting at $10.10/hr in St. Louis. The average pay for this field is $25/hr with a degree, but they offer $17.75/hr after you get a degree, with maybe a $0.50-$1.00/hr raise each year. Look at all the reviews; there are many cons and very few pros. You take a test that's average, and after that, you have a laid-back interview. Don't question start dates or pay, or you won't get an offer. This could be a good job for an 18+ year old living with parents who wants to get into this field, but just understand what you're getting into.